Breastfeeding

Breastmilk is the first, most perfect food for your baby. To breastfeed your newborn is not only to nourish him but to form a tight bond between the two of you. Benefits of breastfeeding go beyond the mere physiology. Nourishing your baby this way satisfies a lot of emotional and spiritual needs as well.

Benefits of breastfeeding for the baby:

1. According to the WHO website , breastmilk is the most natural and safe form of nutrition for a baby. Breastmilk has all the nutrients that a baby needs to develop healthy. It contains antibodies that help protect from many childhood diseases including diarrhea, pneumonia, flu and respiratory infections.

2. Long term benefits of breast feeding include lower rates of obesity, type-1 and type-2 diabetes, lower risk of developing allergies, asthma, multiple sclerosis, lower cholesterol levels and overall better health. There is also evidence that breastfeeding boosts brain power in children.

4. Infant formula does not contain antibodies and same beneficial bacteria as breastmilk and therefore, cannot satisfy all of child’s needs.

5. Breastfeeding satisfies emotional needs of a child, need for close skin-to-skin contact, safety. It helps bond with the mother, which in itself stimulates growth, boosts brain power and contributes to the whole wellbeing of a child.

6. Breastfeeding is soothing and helps the baby fall asleep easily. During an illness, breastfeeding is a great way to hydrate the baby, soothe him and provide him with all the nutrients that his body needs to recover.

7. Breastmilk production is catered to the child needs in its nutritional content and quantity based on the baby’s current age and health requirements. Formula cannot provide this option in the same way breastmilk does.

8. There is evidence that suggests that breastfeeding boosts brain power in children due essential fatty acids which are good for cell development and brain power.

9. Breastmilk is an effective natural remedy for ear infections, pink eye, burns, cuts, eczema, and many other things.